7 Request Definitions, Synonyms, and Antonyms

Many of our programs have technical terms that are important for students to understand. Rather than simply telling students definitions to memorize, having them work with Generative AI to collect definitions gives a more interactive approach. Exploring synonyms and antonyms can be helpful to assist students to better understand complicated terms.

Key Considerations for this Activity

• Will you use this as a pre-class or in-class activity?
• Will you lead students through or have them work in small groups?
• What topics will you have student define? Will they all define the same terms or will individual groups work on different terms and share them back?
• What definitions do you want students to come away with and how will you ensure that they leave with those?
• What steps will you take to mitigate any errors/bias in Generative AI results?

Activity Steps

• This could be assigned as individual pre-work for a class beginning a new section or topic OR it could be used as a bridge-in or learning activity in that class.
• Do a pre-test of the terms you will ask Generative AI to define to ensure that you are getting answers that suit your course. This is particular important for terms that may have different meanings in different industries.
• Provide students with a list of terms and the instruction to seek definitions using Generative AI. (This can be done invidually or in small groups).
• Have students discuss and record definitions.
• You may additionally want to provide guiding prompts or develop those in class with the students.  This could help steer the activity to the appropriate depth for the course.
• Debrief their findings and collectively build an overview of the topic.  This provides opportunity for classroom discussion around understanding how Generative AI creates its responses and potential issues around Bias and Incorrect Information. It also provides opportunity for learning around Generative AI as outlined in Regenerate a Response.